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Description
Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme, commonly known as Miniature Tree Fern or Dendro, is a small epiphytic fern that belongs to the Polypodiaceae family. It is native to Central and South America and can be found growing on tree trunks and rocks in humid forests. The plant has a small size, rarely growing more than 12 inches tall, and features a unique branching habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Dendrohypopterygium |
| Species | Filiculiforme |
Appearance
Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme has a unique branching habit that makes it resemble a miniature tree fern. The plant features slender, dark-green fronds that can grow up to 6 inches long. The fronds are pinnately compound, with small leaflets that are arranged in a feather-like pattern. The plant also produces spores on the underside of the fronds, which can be used for propagation.
Care Guide
Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:Water: Keep the plant evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Soil: Plant Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the fronds.Hardiness Zones: Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme is not frost hardy and should be grown indoors in all zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the plant may be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap if necessary.
Habitat
Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme is native to Central and South America and can be found growing on tree trunks and rocks in humid forests. The plant is epiphytic, meaning it grows on other plants or objects for support, but does not rely on them for nutrients.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme be grown outdoors?
A: No, the plant is not frost hardy and should be grown indoors in all zones.Q: Can the spores of Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme be used for propagation?
A: Yes, the spores can be collected and used to propagate the plant.Q: Does Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme require a lot of sunlight?
A: The plant prefers bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the fronds.Q: How often should Dendrohypopterygium Filiculiforme be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Polypodiaceae family include:
- Adiantum pedatum (Maidenhair Fern)
- Polypodium vulgare (Common Polypody)
- Phlebodium aureum (Blue Star Fern)
- Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern)
References
- Flora of North America: Dendrohypopterygium filiculiforme
- The Plant List: Dendrohypopterygium filiculiforme
- RHS: Dendrohypopterygium filiculiforme
